Former senator and Ambassador Leticia Ramos-Shahani gave an unsolicited advice to President Rodrigo Duterte to observe his manners when meeting with Emperor Akihito of Japan.
This advice was given due to the concerns raised by a number of Japanese officials as the President is widely known for his rather rough manners and language, which is in contrast with the Japanese culture known for highly regarding decorum and courteousness.
Shahani emphasized that convening with the Japanese emperor is treated as an extremely formal occasion to the point that “you will even have to count the steps of the stairs.”
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Several reports have quoted Japanese officials expressing concern that Duterte might be spotted chewing a gum in front of the emperor as well as concern over his fashion, which were both displayed during his meeting with China’s president Xi Jinping.
Shahani stated, “In diplomacy, protocol is very important. Ang mga Hapon ang inaasahan nila, huwag naman mag-chewing gum ang pangulo natin. Huwag naman mag-jeans.”
She even adds that topics to be brought up and how to communicate these mannerly as well as the customary distance between a visiting leader and the emperor have protocols to be followed.
President Duterte’s visit to Japan will be concluded with his meeting with Emperor Akihito.
On Wednesday, Japan’s top government spokesman Yoshihide Suga had stated that the Japanese government will continue supporting the Philippines’ development but avoided any discussion on whether US relations will be part of the topics in the summit, as Japan is reliant on the US for its security, most particularly in Tokyo.
Suga said that Prime Minister Abe will pursue to have “frank exchanges of views from the standpoint that Japan and the Philippines will continue to contribute to regional peace, stability and prosperity.”
Source: (news.abs-cbn.com)
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